https://twitter.com/home https://www.facebook.com/Shabbir.Hussain191By Shabbir Hussain
RIYADH, Nov 26 (Alliance News): Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will “definitely” be his last appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Speaking to CNN’s Becky Anderson during the Tourism Summit in Riyadh on Tuesday, the 40-year-old forward said the next World Cup will mark the end of his journey in major international tournaments.
“I will be 41 years old and I think will be the moment in the big competition,” Ronaldo said, reflecting on a career that has already spanned more than two decades.
When asked about his eventual retirement, he added, “I’m enjoying the moment, but when I mean soon, it’s really soon because I gave everything for football.”
The all-time leading international goalscorer emphasized that after 25 years at the top level, he is proud of what he has achieved. “I did everything. I have many records in different scenarios in the clubs and also in the national teams. I’m really proud, so let’s enjoy the moment, live the moment.”
Ronaldo, the first male player to score in five World Cups, has netted 143 goals for Portugal—a record unmatched in the history of the sport.
The expanded 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup will begin on June 11 in the United States, Mexico and Canada, with the official draw scheduled for December 5 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.
The Portuguese legend also spoke about his family, expressing hopes that his son, Cristiano Jr.—currently playing in Portugal’s under-16 system—might one day surpass him on the pitch.
“Human beings, we don’t want nobody being better than us,” he said, “but in my point, I wish if my kids will be better than me, I’m never going to be jealous of him, trust me.” Ronaldo added that his priority as a father is his son’s happiness and freedom from pressure.
“As a father, I’m here to help him to be whatever he wants to be.”
Earlier this year, Ronaldo became football’s first billionaire player, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, following his record-breaking contract with Al Nassr.
